Rock of Cashel Co Tipperary

If you are travelling from Dublin to see the Rock of Cashel you will find yourself coming round a bend in the road and all at once this spectacular ruin perched upon a limestone outcrop comes into view. If it is a bright day it will be silhouetted against the sky like some vision of Castle Dracula! The Rock, also known as St Patrick's Rock, is a holy site dating back to the time of St Patrick. The ruins consist of 12th century Chapel and High Cross and a 90 feet tall Round Tower. Surrounding these are a 13th century Gothic Cathedral and a 15th century Castle. Quite a collection in one spot! Cashel was the seat of the Kings of Munster prior to the Norman invasion. In 1647 it was ransacked by English parliamentarian troops and all within were slaughtered. 1749 saw the roof being removed and the site fell into ruin.
The Rock of Cashel is a must see and although there is an admission charge it is worth your time. We have visited about 3 times over the years and it never fails to enthrall. There is so much history here.
To get to The Rock take the M7 from Dublin then join the M8 and exit when you reach Junction 17. Take the R639 into Cashel. Once into the town you will see a sharp V-shaped turn right. Carry on down this Road and you will find a large car park on the right (€2). It is a short walk uphill to the entrance.